DEAL CLOSED:Two teams have finalized a deal to acquire Tigers’ ace Skubal in exchange for a substantial trade package.His leaving to…
The Detroit Tigers front office has remained coy about their intentions ahead of the upcoming trade deadline, but that hasn’t quelled rumors swirling around potential trades involving Tigers ace Tarik Skubal.
According to a report by Sports Illustrated’s Tom Verducci, two teams, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Baltimore Orioles, are reportedly poised to offer substantial packages to acquire Skubal. Sources from both teams have confirmed their interest and the depth of prospects they could potentially include in a deal. The pivotal question remains whether Tigers’ president Scott Harris would be willing to part ways with an ace who has two more years of team control remaining.
While the Tigers currently sit in fourth place in the American League Central Division, a recent surge has brought them within seven games of a Wild Card spot as they enter the second half of the season. Despite this, the team’s overall performance has been underwhelming, failing to meet expectations set by fans and management.
A rival talent evaluator quoted by Verducci expressed the view that the Tigers aren’t contenders this year or likely the next, suggesting that the time may be ripe to maximize Skubal’s value, potentially impacting three postseasons for any acquiring team. Skubal, a product of the Tigers’ system, has evolved from a power pitcher to a Cy Young candidate this season. Leading the American League with a 2.41 ERA and holding batters to a meager .190 average, he boasts one of the league’s lowest WHIP figures and has recorded 140 strikeouts against just 21 walks and 10 home runs.
The Dodgers currently hold a commanding lead in the National League West, while the Orioles lead a competitive AL East with a strong 58-38 record. Both teams are in need of starting pitching, with Skubal potentially elevating them from contenders to frontrunners for the World Series title.
